Joy in the Lord is not forbidden in the Catholic Church, but I recall being thoroughly condemned by the bitter crowd much in the same way that David was condemned by Michal: “As the ark of the LORD was entering the City of David, Saul’s daughter Michal looked down through the window and saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, and she despised him in her heart” (2 Samuel 6:16 nab).

There is much for which we must rejoice with an abundance of mercy:

“The LORD has removed the judgment against you, he has turned away your enemies; he King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst, you have no further misfortune to fear. On that day, it shall be said to Jerusalem: Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged! The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love, He will sing joyfully because of you, as one sings at festivals. I will remove disaster from among you, so that none may recount your disgrace. Yes, at that time I will deal with all who oppress you; I will save the lame, and assemble the outcasts; I will give them praise and renown in all the earth, when I bring about their restoration. At that time I will bring you home, and at that time I will gather you; For I will give you renown and praise, among all the peoples of the earth, When I bring about your restoration before your very eyes, says the LORD” (Zephaniah 3:15-20 nab).

I tend not to bow to the scolding of those who forbid joy in the Holy Spirit.